The Chester County Youth Center's partnership with Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) and its Shelter Animals For Enrichment (SAFE) program has garnered national acclaim. The National Association of Counties (NACo) has recognized the county's Youth Center and the BVSPCA with a 2022 Achievement Award, which honors innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.

The SAFE program was initially proposed by Chester County Youth Center caseworker Kristi Washington to help youths receiving services at the Youth Center by giving them a way to complete their community service hours and providing a positive enrichment experience. Youth Center director Deb Maccariella noted that the partnership also helps to ensure the dogs have been adequately socialized prior to their adoption. Hailey Marcus, from the Brandywine Valley SPCA added that the program helps to build positive relationships between youths and county staff members.

In less than a year, the SAFE partnership helped 255 Chester County Youth Center juveniles fulfill community service hours and transition out of the facility. This service was especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic when other community service opportunities were restricted.

The NACo Achievement Awards are given in 18 categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, county administration, information technology, health and civic engagement.